Testicular Reconstruction Surgery

by
Gary K. Johnson

Men have been turning to prosthesis to restore testicular deficiencies for decades. The first recorded testicular implant surgery occurred in 1941. Since then, men who have lost one or both testicles to injury or cancer have some options for restoring their testicles to their original appearance.

There are many types of testicular implants available, but only one, a saline- filled capsule, has been granted approval from The Food and Drug Administration (FDA). It sports the same texture and pliancy of a normal testicle. In addition, the shape and size can be customized to match your other testicle.

The Procedure

Testicular implant surgery is a relatively simple procedure. It only takes approximately 30 minutes to an hour to complete. Since the surgery requires an incision, your plastic surgeon will decide to use general or local anesthetic to ensure that you don’t feel pain during the operation.

Once the anesthesia has taken effect, the surgeon makes an incision. The incision is made in a discrete area, often depending on the patient’s particular circumstances and physiology. The implant is inserted and manipulated so that it rests in the appropriate position to mimic a natural testicle.

Afterwards, the incision is closed with sutures. The area is then bandaged to limit movement and to aid with fluid absorption.

If the testicle is being removed due to cancer, it is common for the implant to be inserted during the same surgery to prevent wasting time and money. Those preparing for removal surgery should speak to their doctors about implant surgery beforehand.

Testicular Implant Surgery Costs

The cost for testicle implants is approximately $3000, but depends on factors such as the particular cost of the implant, as well as anesthetic and surgical fees. Your medical insurance may cover testicular implant surgery if it is due to injury or cancer.

There will be some tenderness and swelling. The doctor typically prescribes medication for the pain, and bandages and sutures are ready to be taken off in five to seven days post-surgery. The healing process should be completely through about two weeks after this.

Like any surgery, there is risk for complications. Complications for testicular implant surgery include wound reopening and infection, but they are rare. Also, since foreign material is being implanted into the patient’s body, there is a potential for the scar tissue that forms around the implant to harden. To lower your risk for complications, it is recommended that you seek a surgeon sufficiently experienced in this type of surgery.

You can set up a consultation with a qualified plastic surgeon right here on PlasticSurgeryPortal.com. Your surgeon can help you decided if the surgery is right for you, and can help you understand what to expect from it.